Three emerging comic artists are getting ready to deliver the laughs at this year’s Melbourne International Comedy Festival, with support from the Victorian Government’s Stand Up! initiative.
The Stand Up! grants program was established in 2019 by the Victorian Government in partnership with the Melbourne International Comedy Festival to support the careers of strong, funny women and non-binary performers who are serious about their comedy. The initiative was inspired by the promise and ambition of Eurydice Dixon, a young Melbourne comedian who did not live to fulfill her dream of becoming a successful, professional performer.
This year’s recipients include Melbourne comedians previous Best Newcomer nominee Maddy Weeks, RAW Comedy runner-up Meg Jäger and Deadly Funny winner Janty Blair.
Grants support delivery of their shows, contributing to expenses such as marketing and promotion, venue costs, rehearsal space and safe travel to and from gigs.
The 2025 Stand Up! Grant Recipients are:
Maddy Weeks, an award-winning non-binary comedian, producer and personality based in Naarm (Melbourne). Originally from Goulburn, this country kid has quickly become a beloved staple in comedy rooms across the nation. In 2023 they won an Antenna Award for their role as host of Channel 31’s live-to-air variety show Wait, We’re Live!?, and in 2024 they were nominated for the prestigious Best Newcomer award at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. Known for their high-energy performances and infectious enthusiasm, Maddy is one of the most captivating (and loudest) acts on the Australian stand-up scene.
Since entering the comedy scene four years ago, Meg Jäger has won the hearts of the east coast with her acerbic witticisms proving she’s more than just a pair of killer choozzies. Earning the runner-up title in RAW Comedy 2023, to being cast in 2024 Comedy Zone (a line-up show of new comedy faces from across Australia, handpicked by the Melbourne International Comedy Festival), Meg is quickly cementing herself as one to watch on the Australian comedy scene.
Janty Blair is a deadly Butchulla, Mununjali and Woppaburra woman; a Saltwater woman currently based in Naarm (Melbourne). National winner of Deadly Funny 2022, she has been a part of many wonderful shows and events since across the country. In 2024 Janty performed at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Gala, proudly supporting Oxfam Australia, and was announced as a Moosehead Award Recipient for her upcoming show. Janty loves bringing her brand of Blak comedy to the stage while showcasing the talents of an older First Nations woman, who never expected to land this comedy gig thing!
For all tickets and up to date program information, visit comedyfestival.com.au.
